In response to a sharp rise in dog thefts during the corona pandemic, the UK government wants to tighten penalties.
Theft of pets is said to be a criminal offense, according to a report by a government commission published on Friday.
The new law is also intended to recognize the emotional suffering of owners and animals.
In 2020, around 2,000 dog thefts were reported to the police, and the price of puppies and the number of pets skyrocketed during the pandemic.
"There is a growing public impression that current criminal law and penalties for animal theft offenses are insufficient and recognize an animal as more than mere property," the report noted.
Environment Secretary George Eustice said reports of an increase in pet theft are worrying.
The report's recommendations would reassure owners lest they "live in fear".
Pet theft is currently considered a loss of property from a legal perspective.
It is true that under the law there is the possibility to impose up to seven years imprisonment.
However, the severity of the punishment depends in part on the monetary value of the item.
It is not yet known how high the penalties will be in the future.